Synopses & Reviews
Albert Schweitzer's Legacy for Education is devoted to the study of the thought and deeds of Albert Schweitzer in relation to education. Schweitzer's life and work offer both inspiration and timely insights for educational thought and practice in the twenty-first century. Focusing on Schweitzer's central thought, "Reverence for Life," Rud assesses Schweitzer as a prophet for social and educational change. He develops the concept of practical reverence in education and describes the impact of Schweitzer's thought upon curriculum development and the moral dimensions of teaching and learning in today's schools.
Review
"Albert Schweitzer should be included in any list of important thinkers on education . . . Rud . . . explains and extends the ideas and practices of an individual who cared deeply for people. The book is an important addition to studies within the philosophy of education. Summing Up: Highly recommended" -
Choice
"We now have a book that carefully delves into both Schweitzer's life and the historical development of his concept of 'Reverence for Life' in a truly magnificent and thought-provoking way. A gifted writer and researcher, Rud is able to synthesize the long process it took for Schweitzer to have this vision, detailing the influence of his wife, Helene, and his work as an author, professor, musician, and theologian. Especially important is Rud's analysis of the need for ritual and ceremony in educational situations, which would apply to even daily chores. Too often we look at the larger picture of the budget or the building to the detriment of the small things we do for and with each other that bind us together. These things should be remembered in any classroom at any level. A seminal and important work, it will add greatly to your knowledge as a teacher and improve the way students learn and become a part of society." - David T. Ives, Executive Director of the Albert Schweitzer Institute, Quinnipiac University, USA
"No other work provides so clear a discussion of Schweitzer's ideas for education today, and it does so with clarity and economy. The drama of Schweitzer's life is deftly used to bring out the inherent drama of his ideas. But this is not simply an historical study: Rud's close discussion of 'Reverence for Life', and the subtle way he draws out its implications for schooling today, adds an important dimension to urgent current discussions about moral education, ecological education, and the appropriate socialization of children. The book integrates details of a life in Africa long ago with the central issues of education that create headlines in our newspapers and distress in our society today." - Kieran Egan, Faculty of Education, Simon Fraser University, Canada
Synopsis
This is the first book devoted to the study of the thought of Albert Schweitzer as it relates to educational theory and practice. Rud argues that Schweitzer's life and work offer inspiration and timely insights for both educational thought and practice in our new century.
About the Author
A.G. Rud is Distinguished Professor in the College of Education at Washington State University, USA. A philosopher of education with interest in the moral dimensions of teaching, learning, and leading, he co-edited, with Jim Garrison, Teaching with Reverence: Reviving an Ancient Virtue for Today's Schools (2012). Rud edits the Palgrave Cultural and Social Foundations of Education Pivot series.
Table of Contents
PART I: SCHWEITZER'S LIFE, INFLUENCES, AND CONVICTIONS
1. A Brief Biography of Early Influences
2. Schweitzer's Philosophical and Religious Heritage
3. An Evolving Relationship: Albert and Hélène
4. To Africa: From Thought to Conviction and Action
5. Reverence for Life
PART II: SCHWEITZER AND EDUCATION
6. Practical Reverence and Education
7. Schweitzer and Moral Education
8. Icon, Scoundrel, Prophet, Paradigm: A Recovery Project for the Schools
Conclusion: Is the School the Way?